Hull Number and IMO Number

Hi, We are building a bulk carrier and got a problem as below:
Our management board want to change the hull number. However, we got some information that a hull number is corresponding to an IMO number. Because IMO number cannot be change so Hull number also cannot be change.
Is that correct? Can we change the hull number while keep IMO number no change?

Look forwards to your soon help.

You should check with the vessels flag administration and Class.

I JUST GOT THIS IN AN EMAIL FROM LLOYD’S TODAY…

[LEFT]Dear Susan,[/LEFT]

[LEFT][FONT=Arial][SIZE=1][SIZE=2]Please note that an IMO Ship Number is assigned for a specific hull number and once issued, will not be subject to any alteration. If the type of ship [/SIZE][/SIZE][/FONT]being built under that hull number is changed or the dimensions changed significantly, then this office should be notified for clarification regarding usage of existing IMO number.

If the vessel name given for a hull number is changed during construction then, to avoid any confusion, this office should be notified immediately.
[LEFT]If the shipbuilding contract for which an IMO number has been issued for a specific hull number is cancelled by an owner, then that IMO number may[/LEFT]

become invalid. Please notify this office for clarification and approval regarding the usage of this existing IMO number. The former IMO number is not transferable to another hull at the shipyard.[LEFT] [/LEFT]

[SIZE=1][FONT=Arial][FONT=Arial][SIZE=2]Hope this clarifies the position,[/FONT][/SIZE][/SIZE][/FONT][SIZE=1]
[FONT=Arial][FONT=Arial][SIZE=2]Kind regards,[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial]Philip.[/FONT][/LEFT]

[/SIZE][/SIZE][/FONT]

Thanks all. I have contact LR office in Vietnam and found that we can change the hull mark while keeping IMO number.
We just need to notify LR then they will update the records with Fair Play.